"We have two great centres in Syl Apps and Ted Kennedy. If we could get one more, our strength down the middle would make us the best." - Conn Smythe. In 1948, Smythe trades the youthful and talented Flying Forts Line of Bud Poile, Gaye Stewart, and Gus Bodnar, as well as highly regarded Bob Goldham and 1942 Cup hero Ernie Dickens to Chicago. In return, the Maple Leafs receive 1946-47 scoring champion Max Bentley and minor-leaguer Cy Thomas. Toronto wins the Cup three times over the next four years.
"Each man is his own absolute law giver and dispenser of glory or gloom to himself, the maker of his life, his reward, his punishment." - Conn Smythe

Captain Syl Apps retired after the 1948 season, despite the fact he was only 33 and had just enjoyed the finest season of his career. Leafs President Conn Smythe convinced Apps to return for the 1949 campaign, but when he learned that Coach Hap Day had already appointed Ted Kennedy captain and would not change his mind, Apps decided not to report.

All five games of the 1950-51 Final were decided by overtime, including Bill Barilko's Cup-winner in Game 5. Tragically, the goal was Barilko's last, as he died in a plane crash three months later.

Toronto becomes the first team to win three straight Stanley Cups since 1906 when Ottawa equaled the feat.